As the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) continues to evolve, the latest installment, formerly known as Thunderbolts, has undergone a significant rebranding, now titled The New Avengers. This shift comes as the film attempts to carve out its identity in a crowded superhero landscape, with a release projected for next year, 2026.
In the film's closing moments, audiences are introduced to a new ensemble of heroes, including Yelena Belova, Bucky Barnes, Red Guardian, U.S. Agent, Ghost, and Bob, also known as The Sentry. This team, dubbed the New Avengers, is set to face off against a formidable foe, Doctor Doom, as Captain America assembles his own Avengers team, leading to a legal battle over the use of the name.
Despite the excitement surrounding the rebranding, the film's box office performance has not been stellar. Following its release on May 1, 2025, Thunderbolts saw a staggering 42.4% drop in ticket sales by May 7, with earnings plummeting to $4.3 million on Wednesday. The film has only managed to garner $91 million domestically, and projections suggest it may finish around $400 million, which is concerning given its hefty budget of approximately $300 million.
Director Jake Schreier has faced criticism for the film's lackluster performance, with many fans questioning the decision to rebrand the film so soon after its release. The film’s initial reception has led to speculation that Marvel Studios may be struggling to connect with its audience, particularly with the new characters introduced.
Among the potential new recruits for the Avengers, Shang-Chi stands out. Although he has been sidelined since his solo film in 2021, a post-credits scene hinted at his future involvement with the Avengers, especially as his Ten Rings were linked to Kang, a major villain in the MCU. Even if that subplot is dropped, fans are eager to see Shang-Chi join forces with Captain America.
Another character with a significant history in the MCU is Ant-Man, who first crossed paths with Sam Wilson when he attempted to infiltrate the Avengers Compound. Their camaraderie was further developed in Captain America: Civil War. With Evangeline Lilly likely stepping back from her role as The Wasp, Ant-Man’s inclusion in the Avengers may serve to bolster the team’s numbers and narrative depth.
However, not all additions are met with enthusiasm. Joaquin Torres, who takes on the mantle of The Falcon, has not resonated as strongly with fans, leading to concerns that his character may be an unnecessary duplication within the team. Some fans suggest that he could be an early casualty in the fight against Doctor Doom, which might serve to heighten the stakes for the remaining heroes.
Thor, a seasoned Avenger, is expected to make a comeback, providing the team with a heavy-hitter. His dynamic with Sam Wilson could lead to intriguing character interactions, especially given their contrasting leadership styles. Meanwhile, Wong, currently in the spotlight as the Sorcerer Supreme, may also join the ranks. His expertise in magic and the Multiverse could prove indispensable against the threats posed by Doctor Doom.
Captain Marvel is anticipated to play a pivotal role in the upcoming film, potentially sharing leadership duties with Sam Wilson. Given the mixed reception of her previous appearances, there is hope that Avengers: Doomsday will provide a platform to redeem her character and showcase her strengths.
As for the comic book side of things, Marvel Comics is also transitioning its Thunderbolts series to The New Avengers. Writer Sam Humphries has confirmed that this change was part of the plan from the outset, with characters like Carnage, Clea, and Wolverine joining the roster. The new comic series aims to capture the essence of the original Avengers while introducing a more morally ambiguous team dynamic.
Humphries noted that the new team will consist of characters from various corners of the Marvel Universe, echoing the classic Illuminati lineup. The narrative will explore the interpersonal conflicts within the group, which is expected to lead to some explosive dynamics. The Killuminati, a group of villains inspired by the Illuminati, will serve as the primary antagonists, posing a significant threat to the New Avengers.
The first issue of the new comic series is set to be released on June 11, 2025, and it promises to deliver a fresh take on the superhero genre, blending action with complex character interactions.
In the meantime, The New Avengers movie continues to navigate its path in the competitive landscape of superhero films. While the rebranding has stirred up excitement, the box office performance raises questions about audience engagement with the new characters and storylines. As Marvel prepares for the future, fans are left wondering whether this new direction will resonate or if it will falter like its predecessors.
With the MCU constantly evolving, the success of The New Avengers will be crucial in determining the future of the franchise. As the studio grapples with audience expectations and the shifting dynamics of superhero storytelling, only time will tell if this new chapter can capture the hearts of fans once again.
